The shortest month of the year is wrapping up, but new restaurants are just starting to open in Naples. It’s been a busy two months since 2026 began, with new restaurants opening nearly every week.
Here’s what you may have missed this month in the Naples restaurant scene, including new openings, local representation on Food Network, and some info on the Naples Daily News / Fort Myers News-Press annual pizza bracket competition.
Local chef competing on new Food Network show
Local chef Kayla Pfeiffer is no stranger to Food Network competitions, and she’s ready to add a new one to her resume. In 2024, Pfeiffer competed on “Chopped” and became a champion after using a whole alligator heart and marshmallow fluff to create a somehow-tasty dish that won over the judges.
You can catch Pfeiffer on national television on March 4 when chef and TV personality Guy Fieri’s new show “Flavortown Food Fight” premieres at 9 p.m. Tune in to watch Pfeiffer compete for another Food Network win.
Shake Shack opens at Mercato
Shake Shack is now open at Mercato in North Naples, marking the first SWFL location for the fast casual chain. Burgers, chicken sandwiches, milkshakes, hot dogs, and lemonade can be ordered for dine in or carry out…